07 November 2025

The Benguet State University (BSU) College of Agriculture – Department of Animal Science signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Atok, Buguias, and the Mankayan Farmer Cooperators.

The project titled “Enhancing the Productivity & Sustainability of Benguet Native Pig Production,” aims to preserve and promote native pig farming as a livelihood that supports both cultural heritage and local economy in Benguet.

Project Leader Mary Arnel D. Garcia shared the overview of the project. She also presented the roles of the university, the LGUs, and the famer cooperators in the project.
University President Kenneth A. Laruan emphasized that this effort reflects a shared commitment to sustainable development, preserving culture, and supporting the local economy. Laruan also highlighted the native pig’s cultural significance in rituals and its importance to food security and economic growth in Benguet.

He thanked the researchers leading the project and expressed hope that the initiative will continue to promote the productivity of native pigs in the province.

Mankayan Mayor and League of Municipalities of the Philippines – Benguet Chapter President Cesar D. Pasiwen expressed gratitude to BSU for selecting them as a recipient of breeder transfers under the native pig production project. He emphasized the importance of increasing native pig production in the municipalities to reduce reliance on supply from other regions.
Pasiwen also hopes for the expansion of the number of farmer cooperators engaged in native pig farming to strengthen the local supply chain.

“Nagpapasalamat kami sa leadership ng BSU for selecting our town to become farmer cooperators. Hopefully makahanap pa tayo ng iba pang famer cooperators para mas madami pa tayong maalagaan nating native na baboy,” Pasiwen stated.

VP for Research and Extension Roscinto Ian C. Lumbres praised the dedication of BSU researchers and farmer cooperators in improving the breed and production of native pigs. He urged them to promote Benguet native pigs to ensure that locals will patronize native pigs in the province rather than buying from other places.

Finally, Lumbres encouraged continued collaboration and media outreach to raise awareness about the significance of Benguet native pigs and the university’s efforts.